Meet the woman who will play Diana in The Crown

The Crown have finally found their Princess Diana.

Following a widespread casting search to determine who would nab the role of a lifetime, TV newcomer Emma Corrin, has been cast to play the Princess in the blockbuster Netflix series.

The 23-year-old is set to join the show in season four, which is expected to debut next year and chronicle the Prince and Princess of Wales’ courtship.

And although she bears a striking resemblance to a young Lady Diana, Emma, a recent Cambridge graduate, is a somewhat unexpected pick for the high-profile part.

A handful of theatre productions and a few spots on the upcoming Epix television series Pennyworth act as the highlights of her acting credentials.

But it helps that she’s already a fan of the show, revealing the casting’s made her ‘beyond excited’.

“I have been glued to the show since the first episode and to think I’m now joining this incredibly talented acting family is just surreal,” she said in a statement.

“Princess Diana was an icon, and her effect on the world remains profound and inspiring. To be given the chance to explore her through Peter Morgan’s writing is the most exceptional opportunity, and I will strive to do her justice!”

Luckily for Emma, it may have been her fresh outlook – along with her acting chops – that ultimately nabbed her the role, according to the series’ creator Peter Morgan.

“Emma is a brilliant talent who immediately captivated us when she came in for the part of Diana Spencer,” he said.

“As well as having the innocence and beauty of a young Diana, she also has, in abundance, the range and complexity to portray an extraordinary woman who went from anonymous teenager to becoming the most iconic woman of her generation.”

Emma’s casting follows announcements that Olivia Colman will take over the role of Queen Elizabeth from Claire Foy, while Tobias Menzies will play Prince Phillip, who was previously portrayed by Matt Smith.

The drama-fuelled series chronicles the trials and triumphs of the Queen from her coronation in 1953, with its later series are expected to profile until present day, hence the need for new actors.

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